Balotelli for Arnautovic dubbed a bad joke

West Ham fans have been told to keep their money in their pockets after reports that Mario Balotelli could be on his way to West Ham.

The news emerged on TalkSport bookmakers making the Hammers clear favourites to sign Balotelli with hos odds shortening from 6/1 to 5/2.

That we have just removed one awful troublemaker from the squad in the shape of Arnautovic and are ready to swap him for another seriously controversial player makes little sense and defies their own supposed ability to shape sensible odds.

Balotelli reportedly paid a Naples-based bar owner €2,000 to drive his Vespa into the sea, before lighting up a cigarette.

But the 28-year-old has shown at both Inter and AC Milan, as well as Manchester City, he can be a nightmare on the pitch as well.

Talksport reported however that “after being priced at 6/1, Balotelli is now just 5/2 to move to the East End. Manuel Pellegrini could bring the striker in on a free to replace Mark Arnautovic.”

Balotelli watched on with a crowd as the man, wearing nothing but his pants, drove into the sea

However, a senior source at the club told us on the phone: “Manuel Pellegrini does not have the slightest interest in the player – he only wants guys who play for the team.

I suggest our fans keep their money in their pockets – Balotelli will most certainly not be coming to this club – him for Arnautovic …it’s a bit of a bad joke isn’t it.”